Lille is the capital city of Hauts-de France in the north region of the country. It is bordered by Belgium and thus has essential characteristics of both the place. Lille was once a hub to many merchant centers of the country and that will definitely. Several historically significant places in Lille lure tourists to visit the place more often. And thus the place makes one of the best off-beat destinations across France. With its Flemish influence, Lille has both sightseeing and cuisines.
Let’s look into the best possible things that you can do on your visit to Lille
Palais des Beaux Arts
The Palais des Beaux-Arts is a government/ municipal gallery completely dedicated to the art, culture and tradition of the place. The Museum is dedicated to both fine arts, modern and contemporary arts. There is fine European art involved in the making of the museum the most sought. This wonderful art building was first opened to the public in the year 1892. The estimated number of people coming here to visit the museum is not less than 200000 every year.
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Place Charles de Gaulle
You can call Place Charles de Gaulle a square or road junction. It is situated right at the heart of the city. The place is quite a favorite among the locals and the travelers as well. The reason is but obvious. Restaurants, cafes, museum and a bustling young crowd are the place is all about. The junction is well decorated and completely looks out from fairytales during Christmas. So, if you are confused as a tourist as to where to start your city tour? Well, start from Place Charles de Gaulle, the oldest part of Lille.
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Notre-Dame-de-la-Treille Cathedral
At the Place Gilleson in Lille, the Notre-Dame-de-la-Treille Cathedral is situated. It is a Catholic Church that has Roman influence to a very large extent. The design and style of the church are complete of Gothic Revival architecture. It was first opened for the public in the year 1999. Now the Cathedral is considered a national monument of Lille. Without any second thought thus architectural eminence stands as one of the most brilliant pieces of work in 19th century France.
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Zoo Lille
If you are on a vacation to France with your kids then Lille Zoo is the place you shouldn’t miss. The zoo has a good number of exotic birds and animals. Also, you will come across few mammals and some marine life in the zoo. It is also a theme-based structure with every animal segregated according to its specialty and characteristics. Kids would love the theme park where they can explore nature and its magic.
Beffroi de Lille
The Beffroi de Lille is a famous landmark in Lille. It is an iconic building standing tall in the heart of the city. This building has a giant bell tower to its credit. Tourists can go up to the tower using the spiral stairs. From the top, you can get a glimpse of mesmerizingly beautiful city views.
The architectural style and view of Beffroi de Lille are Art Deco and Flemish neo-renaissance. The structure is also listed on the UNESCO World Heritage site.
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Cita-Parc
This pace is also the best one when it comes to bringing your kids along with you. This is a central park which is mostly for the kids also lures young adults to spend some fun time. There are quite colorful play activities and giant toys. The best part is that there are several shops and cafes around the vicinity. The park is opened from morning to evening with one day off on a weekday for maintenance.
Musée des Canonniers
The Musée des Canonniers de Lille is an historical significant place to visit in Lille. It is a museum that exhibits the art and history of the city. Also, there are military weapons showcased in the museum that allows the visitors to understand the military scenario of the place after the revolution. The outside of this museum is a wonderful garden that is well decorated with exotic plants and well maintained.
There is a good flow of travelers at the museum every year during the summers.
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Grande Braderie De Lille
If you are in a shopping mood then this the best possible place you could be. This flea market at Lille is one of its kind, in number and quality. It is said that the market holds almost more than 10000 stalls at a time. You will get whatever you are looking for, right from local fruits to local handicrafts. Places that will help you understand the main source of income of the common people and learn their way of living and food.
Know The People
It is quite easy for the tourist to understand the people and their culture at Lille. Language and communication won’t be an issue as the percentage of English-speaking people are higher in Lille than in any other French city. Also, Lille is the safest place for the tourist with lesser crime rates and an absolute warm people. The city is the fourth-largest urban city in France yet underrated in terms of tourism due to its neighboring cities like Paris and Orleans.
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Taste The French Cuisine
Even though the French cuisine is popular among the tourist all over the world, the Flemish stew known as Carbonades Flamandes is the main attraction of the city. The dish has a Belgium influence of its own and makes it special. Other than that tourists can relish the authentic taste of Cassoulet and Oeufs en Meurette. Also, cheese from France and loved the entire world.
Lille is one of the largest cities in France. One of the best places to know the culture and the tradition of France. With prominent architecture and other landmarks, Lille should be on your next France visit.
Bon Voyage!